…no turkey TV dinner for me Thanksgiving night then, eh?

InFormers: Robots in the News

1. The TransFormers The Movie “Rifftrax,” aka MSTing, is now available.

Assorted Mushrooms

1. Looks like Toys R Us is planning to have “one outstanding deal each day” from Black Friday throught… Cyber Monday? What the hell is that?

   Here’s a summary of their Black Friday deals. I’m still weeping over the Galaxy Force Optimus Prime… and select DS and PSP games are half off, too.

Video Power

1. Capcom is having a holiday sale on their website, with some pretty good games at pretty good prices. Alas, no Mega Man Anniversary Collection for PS2 or MegaMan Star Force: Dragon… but, Mega Man ZX Advent is there.
2. Guitar Hero III on Xbox 360 now has a free Halo 3 theme download, which I’d imagine is exclusive. And to which I’d give major applause to Microsoft if it wasn’t.

   And if you’re interested, here’s the pic they asked me to do for the story on the front page.

3. Since the PSP is clearly doing so well as a multifunctional gaming device, it only makes sense that they would be enticed by the thought of a PlayStation phone.
4. Nintendo expects that Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Mario Kart Wii will keep their momentum going next year.

   Really, who’s going to seriously argue?

5. Meanwhile, over at Camp Sony, they expect that the PS3 will match the success of the PS2.
6. Yet another Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 teaser. Not as good as some of the others, but still worth a laugh.

   Plus, gameplay footage of Electrocution and Live Action Antics.

   And the official website has even more craziness built right in.

7. Smash Bros. DOJO!! brings a surprising addition today in the form of Saki Amamiya from Sin & Punishment, recently released on Virtual Console.
8. 1 year of Wii is celebrated, and now 3 of DS.
9. Dammit all. Super Mario Galaxy has fallen back to #2 behind The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time as GameRankings’ #1 game of all time.

   I suppose it’s no big deal in the grand scheme of things, but I enjoyed Galaxy FAR more than I did Ocarina.

10. The Orange Box gets an Xbox 360 demo today.
11. Rise of the Video Games began on Discovery Channel last night, and I forgot all about it. Thank God they’re doing reruns. If only I could get a TiVo…
12. Though not doing so hot abroad for some reason (hey Europe, now you wonder why you get the short end on games?), Super Mario Galaxy is the fastest selling Mario game in the US.

    Given Mario’s history as a launch and pack-in title, plus Super Mario Bros. 3, that’s really quite incredible.

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

American Thanksgiving… things are going a little slow at this point this week, and of course, it’s bound to get worse. Me? I’ll probably take a break from reporting, but may glance around and do something if there’s enough to warrant it.

In the meantime, I anticipate my Thanksgiving Dinner may look something like this (minus the 7up), assuming we can even afford that. Feel free to donate to my Thanksgiving TV Dinner Fund for the wife and I on the left there with Mario and Luigi.

Assorted Mushrooms

1. Looks like things have gotten ugly for Mattel and other toy manufacturers in California.
2. Official casting news for the Justice League movie could be imminent…
3. …while Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine flick might be delayed.
4. David Hasselhoff might be returning to his old role in the upcoming Knight Rider TV-movie.

Video Power

1. In a press release from Nintendo to boast of Super Mario Galaxy and its (well-deserved) praise from reviewers, they also make mention of a mall tour that will be going on that will allow gamers to try it themselves. The Nintendo Mall Experience runs across 25 malls across the country, and you can see if there’s one near you by checking this link.

   I tried for something similar for them up here last year. Didn’t get the job. Can you believe it? That’s like a punch to the gut, or at least a slap in the face, to be a Nintendo fan but not good enough to extoll the virtues of the platform of choice.

   Oh well. At least I got to go to Nintendo World for the launch instead, thanks to travelling pal Shinkuu.

2. Think I mentioned this before, but just to be sure: Microsoft’s free Halo 3 deal isn’t such a good deal after all.
3. It’s been mentioned plenty of times before, but now it’s official: Nintendo has two new DS Lite bundles hitting stores for the holidays.
4. Now thanks to Manhunt 2, Senators are calling for Wii games to be rated differnetly.
5. That new Halo novel, “Contact Harvest?” Now a New York Times Bestseller.
6. If you’re into Guitar Hero and don’t yet have a 360 (and the above Halo 3 deal doesn’t exactly meet your requirements), maybe Best Buy’s deal is more your speed.
7. And GameDaily is kind enough to list some other deals.
8. Ah, goodie, a new reason to own a PSP: you can shop the PS Store without the need of owning a PlayStation 3 to act as middleman.
9. Smash Bros. DOJO!! has added an update I’ve been eagerly awaiting: Color Changes!

   I’m glad Fire Mario’s color scheme is finally selectable. But I’d rather see Wario in Wario’s colors than Mario…

   Link’s new alternate is pretty awesome, and I like the “fusion” of a couple of Samus’ suits there. All in all, these are cool… and I hope there are more yet unseen for these characters (for some, there must be)!

10. Go Nintendo has found some new tidbits about the upcoming Ghostbusters game.

    I wonder if “cartoon-style graphics” alludes to the old TV show?

11. Buy Metroid Prime 3? Beat it? Nintendo wants to know what you think.
12. First the Wii, then Wii Play… now add the Wii Zapper to the hard to find list.

    I guess this one’s a little more understandable, since reviews of Link’s Crossbow Training have been all over the board… who’d know how it would do?

13. Ok, this isn’t so bad. That Nintendo update that would nix the MP3s? Well…

    I can appreciate your concerns regarding the coming changes to the Wii Photo Channel. However, it?s important to note that this is an optional download and is not planned as part of any system updates to Wii. If your Photo Channel currently supports music files in the MP3 format, you can retain this compatibility by electing to not update your Photo Channel to version 1.1.

    Additionally, this update will not have an impact on Wii games which use MP3 music files. These Wii games will not be compatible with AAC files and will continue to use the MP3 file format.

    Works for me!

14. The original SEGA Saturn game NiGHTS Into Dreams is coming to the… PS2? Um, that’s sort of cool, I guess. Seems like it’d kind of divide the audience a little… maybe it’s included on the Wii title?

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

Assorted Mushrooms

1. 

   Last night marked the second coming.

   Y2J is back, and I can’t wait to see what he does to mess with Randy Orton.

2. The Ranger Retrocenter has a sneak peek at 2008′s Power Rangers Jungle Fury toyline, as well as a blurb from the story:

   “For over ten thousand years, a spirit of pure evil, Dai Shi has been locked away and safely guarded by the secretive Kung Fu clan, Pai Zhuq, ?Order of the Claw.? But now, evil has escaped and the Pai Zhuq must select their three top members to fight this evil. Once selected, the three Kung Fu warriors are given the special gift of becoming Power Rangers, and are the Earth?s only hope to stop the army of evil animal spirits from overtaking the human world.”

   Guess someone’s gotta say it… “You seek to take over the Earth… now, we must KUNG-FU FIGHT!”

   Do like the outfits this time around, though.

3. He-Man.Org has an update regarding the 2002 Mike Young cartoon series, with word that it’s showing up in Navarre‘s search engine, set for a release on February 19, 2008 and a MSRP of $26.98.
4. Newsarama has been to the premiere of Futurama: Bender’s Big Score, to be released on DVD later this month, and here’s some stuff that was said.
5. Like clockwork, GameSpite gives us the lowdown on what’s new this week in anime, DVD, and games.

Video Power

1. Smash Bros. DOJO!! brings us three updates so far this week: the Ice Climbers’ Final Smash, Training mode, and the Smart Bomb from Star Fox.
2. Sony’s latest attempt to woo developers? Cheaper dev kits.
3. Xbox and Doritos’ “Unlock Xbox” contest now has a winner.
4. New Virtual Console games to celebrate 1 year of Wii and… well, Virtual Console!

   Sonic 3D Blast hits the Genesis, and was an ok title in its day, though not the best way for the ‘hog to leave the 16-bit platform, nor enter 32-bit.

   Super Air Zonk is the sequel to Air Zonk, starring the descendent of caveboy Bonk of the TurboGrafx-16, now in shiny CD form.

   And finally, Mario and Luigi appear as a pair of homewreckers of a different kind in Wrecking Crew, an old favorite from the NES days that I’d like to get my hands on.

   So, what’s good to buy, and what’s better to let lie? Toastyfrog rounds up the answers. That is, assuming that when you click the link, the page looks like something more than what a hacker threw up, as it does for me right now.

5. Halo 3 fans who’ve finished the fight now have something to look forward to… map packs, coming in December!

   …I wish Super Mario Galaxy was getting new maps.

6. The Rabbid Invasion draws near… and you can check out the opening cinematic and several gameplay videos via GameTrailers.

   And WiiFolders has tons of unlockable costumes!

7. Remember when Super Paper Mario came out in Europe, with that nasty glich?

   Good news: replacement copies are here! Er, there.

8. Looks like K-Mart’s a good place to get a limited edition DS bundle (featuring Zelda and Nintendogs).

   Or, go to Best Buy and get them with Over the Hedge and a starter pack.

9. Plus, Best Buy is dropping some titles to $20. Can’t speak for bowling and fishing, but Resident Evil 4 and Sonic and the Secret Rings are well worth that price.
10. Seems that Square-Enix still has no idea when Dragon Quest IX will be released.
11. Another report of Best Buy scamming customers. Well, in a manner of speaking. Not like they’re charging more or forcing you to buy, just lying like bitches in heat about how much stock they have. Sneaky, conniving, yes, but bad? Guess that’s for the courts to decide. Remember: just because they have it, doesn’t mean you have to buy it.
12. If you’re down with buyin’ Guitar Hero III, then I’ve got two words for ya’: WATCH OUT!!

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

Wow, almost forgot it’s Saturday. Guess I ought to maybe update or something, huh?

Been playing a bit of Super Mario Galaxy lately, too. Anyone want a PMO review? Or are the gushings of every other gaming site on the web enough for you?

InFormers: Robots in the News

1. Prototypes of the Movie-based “Trans-Scanning” line have been revealed. It’s hard to tell from the pics, but these look like they might have the potential to look as good or better than the regular toys.
2. If you’re going to Toronto, Canada’s TransFormersCon next year, then it might interest you to know that there will be a Hasbro Q&A. Sounds fun, hope I can go!

Assorted Mushrooms

1. Could the GI Joe comic book be finding its way to a new home? Maybe, as the license is up for renewal, and Newsarama’s laying odds on who could walk away with the Real American Hero.

Video Power

1. Good news! You can get Halo 3 free with the purchase of an Xbox 360!

   Bad news! There’s a ton of red tape that really cuts down on the shine of the deal.

2. The new Ghostbusters game has a new teaser, a look at the game in action, and some screens.
3. Toys R Us will soon have a special on Wii games, buy two, get the third free. Cool deal.
4. Come Black Friday, Sam’s Club will have a nift Wii bundle for sale.
5. Pity it won’t be out in time for Christmas; The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters heads to DVD on January 29th, for just under 20 bucks.
6. Whoops! Happy belated Birthday to Mr. Miyamoto, who turned 55… um… I guess it’s Friday? Dammit, Go Nintendo, won’t you PLEASE get that date issue fixed already?
7. Also, Happy Birthday to the PS3! For your birthday wish, may you get smarter mouthpieces and more advertisements that continue the cool ones you now have.
8. Holy crap… Happy Birthday to the webcomic Dueling Analogs as well, now celebrating two years!
9. This reminds me… I need to give my mother a call… it’s almost her birthday…

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

InFormers: Robots in the News

1. TransFormers: Animated is set to debut Wednesday, December 26th at 8 PM on Cartoon Network, in the form of a “movie,” which will no doubt be three or four eps strung together.
2. Man, times like this, I HATE being in Canada: Black Friday TransFormers sales, with Toys R Us knocking the Cybertron Optimus I wanted, “Galaxy Force Optimus Prime,” down to a mere 20 bucks. Damnation. A sale we won’t have in a place I can’t get to for an item I still can’t afford. I sense a divine form of mockery here…
3. Thanks to Joost, you can now watch Generation 1 online, for free.

Assorted Mushrooms

1. It’s pretty cool that with the strike going on, Letterman is covering his staff’s salaries for the time being.
2. Screenwriter Justin Marks talks to IGN about his plans for a major motion-picture adapatation of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe.
3. Dragon Ball is coming next summer.

Video Power

1. Smash Bros. DOJO!! picks things up a little with the Special Moves of perennial fan-favorite Meta Knight, and to double the fun, there’s a preview of the song Meta Knight’s Revenge to go with it.

   The closing update of the week, however, is a little less exciting as Spectator mode is revealed. But interesting is the fact you can actually bet on the outcomes of matches.

2. Press release from SEGA, revealing the release date for Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games for the DS:

   SAN FRANCISCO & LONDON (November 15, 2007) – SEGA? of America, Inc. and SEGA Europe Ltd. today announced that Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games? for the Nintendo DS? will be shipped to stores on January 22, 2008. This exciting game is part of an exclusive partnership between SEGA and Nintendo and brings one of the most legendary competitions – an epic face-off between Team Mario and Team Sonic – to Nintendo’s immensely successful handheld system. Coming out for the Nintendo DS? with exclusive new content, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games was also released on the Wii? home system on November 6.

   Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, created specifically to take advantage of all the features the DS has to offer, boasts 16 official Olympic challenges including two new events that are exclusive to the handheld game – 10m Platform Diving and Cycling. Using the unique Touch Screen and stylus, players can interact with the game as they jump, swim, run, shoot, pedal and flip their way through authentic competitions to win Gold medals. The Nintendo DS edition also features eight Dream events – five of which can only be found on the handheld game. Each Dream event takes an Olympic sport and brings it into a video game-inspired world filled with obstacles, power-ups and familiar opponents from the worlds of Mario & Sonic to challenge even the best players. These exclusive DS Dream events are: Dream Canoe, Dream Boxing, Dream Basketball, Dream Long Jump and Dream Shooting(Skeet).

   Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games presents DS players the chance to play as any one of 16 video game characters – eight from the world of Mario? and eight from the world of Sonic – each bringing their own talents and athletic capabilities to the competitions. The game is filled with challenges for all kinds of gamers thanks to the three gameplay modes – the Single Event Mode where players can choose one specific event to play, the Circuit Mode where players can choose a series of events to compete in, and the Mission Mode where players have the opportunity to fulfill a series of solo challenges that test their athletic capabilities, timing and reflexes. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games finishes up with the Gallery, where mini-games and Olympic trivia come together to bring more addictive DS fun.

   Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games for the Nintendo DS also offers irresistible multiplayer opportunities by taking full advantage of the DS wireless capabilities that offers both Single-Card and Multi-Card gameplay options. The multiplayer gameplay can be enjoyed in Single Event Mode – including the Dream events – as well as in Circuit Mode for up to four players. For gamers looking to see how they do on an international level, DS players can use the Nintendo? Wi-Fi Connection system to upload their scores to the worldwide rankings and check how they rate against players around the world.

   Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games for the Nintendo DS will be shipped to stores across North America on January 22, 2008. The game is also currently in stores for the Wii home system. For more information about the game, please visit the website at www.sega.com/mariosonic. For screenshots, videos and art, check out the SEGA FTP site at http://segapr.segaamerica.com.

   You can see screens of the game here.

3. Amazon’s planning another killer Black Friday special, and as it was last year, you’ve got to vote on what you want to be had at pretty ass-kicking prices.
4. Looks like DS is getting ports of the first two Summon Night games. Too bad the third is where my interest lies.
5. Skate or Die on Virtual Console? That’s the very definition of nostalgia right there. Pity EA and Konami have since let the title languish in obscurity. Something to match up with the Tony Hawks and such would be neat.
6. Kotaku has a glimpse at the new Ghostbusters game, along with some info about co-op and multiplayer (though with the former, one would assume it also involves the latter).

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

First, apologies for the late update.

Second, I’m looking at possibly getting the Nyko Recharging Station for the Wii, as it seems Super Mario Galaxy is a real drain on the ol’ batteries. Seems I’ve heard a little good, a little nil on this particular device, however. Anyone reading this have it? Is it a good investment, or bad? Inquiring gamers want to know!

InFormers: Robots in the News

1. A seller on TaoBao.com has images of the new Fast-Action Battlers, including a strangely white Pulse Cannon Ironhide, Sonic Shock Smokescreen (who appears to be a Jazz recolor with a G1 homage color scheme), Fire Blast Optimus Prime, and Claw Slash Ramjet, who I think is a recolored Starscream.

Assorted Mushrooms

1. With all of the toy recalls and safety issues, I suppose it was only a matter of time before there would be a proposal for toy safety legislation.
2. Garfield.com is reporting that KFC is offering $3 rebate coupons in their “Laptop” kid’s meals towards… what else? Garfield DVDs.

   What’s more interesting to me, however, is this:

   In the US, kids will be treated to a laptop meal box which includes a bunch of fun activities, and participating international markets are offering Garfield toys with a purchase.

   Ouch, sounds like the US is getting the short end on that one. Seriously, in an age where kids can leave a fast food joint with SEGA games, TransFormers, Power Rangers, Wii toys, and more, who really gives a crap about “fun activities?” Those are just bonuses on top of the toy, if the kid even cares that much.

   Even K-Mart’s food courts topped KFC here, and at the same property! And yes, I’m sad there are no K-Marts in Canada.

3. Hmm, Revoltech Rei from Evangelion, available for import? I think I’ll just leave those interested alone with their thoughts.
4. Oh, DAMN.

   Due to the Writer’s Strike, this past Sunday’s Family Guy was supposed to be the last episode made. And it would have been… until Fox finished next week’s ep, and three more that were near completion, withOUT Seth MacFarlane, who’s rather pissed by the incident.

5. Christ on a cracker… I guess they really are serious about it this time.

   Justin Chatwin and James Masters have been cast for the “DBZ” movie, as Son Goku and Piccolo, respectively.

Video Power

1. It’s here, it’s here! The time is here! Contra 4 is here!

   CONTRA 4 BLASTS INTO RETAIL STORES NATIONWIDE

   Quintessential Action Franchise Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary With New Gameplay Elements, Full Cooperative Multiplayer Mode and Bonus Content Delivered in Larger-Than-Life Sequences on the Nintendo DS?

   EL SEGUNDO, CA ? November 13, 2007 ? Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc, today announced Contra 4 for the Nintendo DS? has shipped to retail outlets nationwide. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the popular action franchise, Contra 4 features 2D side-scrolling action that recalls the retro feel of the original fan favorite with the added bonus of massive battles that utilize both screens of the Nintendo DS?.

   ?In celebration of the franchise?s 20th anniversary, we wanted to bring back the retro look and feel of classic Contra while still providing fresh, compelling content,? said Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. ?Well adapted to the Nintendo DS?s dual screens, Contra 4 provides an action-packed experience for seasoned Contra players as well as new fans of the franchise.?

   Taking place two years after the events of Contra III: The Alien Wars, Contra 4 forces our heroes into battle against an army of alien invaders, including the return of the terrifying Black Viper. Players must dodge, shoot, and jump over obstacles and enemies coming at them from every direction. Unique to the series, Contra 4 introduces a grappling hook accessory that provides players a means to grab onto structures above, allowing them to move seamlessly from screen to screen on the DS. Pushing the limits of the Contra franchise to new heights, the grappling accessory also grants players the strategic use of environmental elements for timely escapes, better vantage points for devastating attacks and it becomes crucial in defeating the massive bosses that take up both screens of the Nintendo DS.

   Contra 4 offers cooperative gameplay that allows up to two players to join forces and defeat Black Viper?s alien army for the continued existence of mankind. Recruit a friend and let the battle for Earth commence!

   Contra 4 also incorporates a wealth of in-game bonus content commemorating 20 years of the run and gun action franchise, including:

   ? 20th Anniversary Virtual Museum ? A virtual history of the Contra franchise since the 80?s, including box art, screen shots and information on every version of Contra from the US, Japan and Europe. The museum also features an unlockable gallery of bonus art.

   ? Unlockable Games ? The NES versions of the classic Contra and Super C are now unlockable.

   ? 5 unlockable characters, including the Probotector from the European version of the Contra games.

   ? 2 unlockable digital comic books from longtime Contra artist, Atsushi Tsujimoto.

   ? An interview with noted Contra Producer Nobuya Nakazato.

   Contra 4 is rated ?T? for Teen and is now available on the Nintendo DS in retail outlets nationwide for the SRP of $29.99. For more information on the game and the Contra franchise, please visit: www.konami.com/contra.

   Now, I just need to actually GET a copy.

2. Smash Bros. DOJO!! has updated with an unexciting but perhaps “for the best” post in Handicaps.

   Naturally, the downside to handicaps is that if you use them, the person you’re playing with might take some offense.

3. A little word has come up to confirm that the Ghostbusters are coming to Wii and PS2. Rawksome.
4. Sounds like Wii shortages in the UK are getting worse.

   Nintendo UK Managing Director David Yarnton responds to complaints from customers (or potential customers) on BBC.

5. Sorry, no Bioshock on PS3.
6. If you’ve been kicking the ball back and forth, trying to decide whether or not to pick up one of those Nintendo WiFi USB dongles… better make up your mind, and quick.
7. So the good news is, Xbox is doing their own sort of Virtual Console thing with first-generation Xbox titles. The bad news is, they may not be perfect. Theoretically, shouldn’t they be about as good as if you were playing them through backwards compatibility?
8. Atari says good-bye to game development… again. And, their CEO has resigned.

   Sort of makes me want to go mourn at Chuck E. Cheese…

9. Well, who’s that handsome fellow writing this article? Oh, right. Anyway, details of LEGO Batman abound, as do many inside-jokes. How many can YOU spot?
10. AMN reports on a poll that reveals the downfall of society. With a nifty title that I bet you can’t say five times fast.
11. What the hell, Nintendo? I mean… just… what the hell? Dropping MP3 support on the Wii? Are you daft?

    Ok, I admit I don’t really use it, but if this affects something like custom soundtracks on Excite Truck, THEN I will definitely be pissed.

12. Looks like Konami and I are of like minds. I’ve figured that this generation, Sony has the most to loseWeight Exercise, Nintendo the most to gain, and Microsoft would probably stay the same, with perhaps some gain.

    I think it’s going to be a much closer race than last time.

13. Since Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law has been pushed back to early next year, it only makes sense that Capcom should keep our appetites ready with some new trailers.
14. A hilarious new trailer shows the best way to enjoy Rayman: Raving Rabbids 2: with friends.
15. So… what would they call this, then? DS Extra Lite?
16. Interesting. Capcom’s looking to open new arcades (probably all in Japan, mind), that are geared towards women and families.

    Sounds interesting. Makes me wonder in what ways Japanese arcades tend to differ from their American contemporaries insofar as to be “male oriented.”

17. Woohoo, Earthworm Jim (and MDK) look like they’re on the comeback trail! Hope this includes a revival of the former’s cool-looking, cancelled PSP title.
18. Toys R Us in the US is planning some Black Friday fun. Here’s what’s planned.
19. Note to people shopping Best Buy for the Wii. If they tell you that the one they have is the last, there’s a very good chance that they might be full of it.

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

InFormers: Robots in the News

1. Furman’s blog has updates regarding a couple of Movie-based UK items, one a comic and the other a sort of souveneir magazine with details surrounding the film’s characters, sort of like trading cards but more in-depth.

Assorted Mushrooms

1. Looks like Marvel is helping move comics into the new millenium by offering up thousands of their back-issues online for a fee.
2. GameSpite, as if on cue, presents this week’s new releases in DVD, anime, and games.

Video Power

1. The DOJO!! has added Ike’s Final Smash and three different taunts to its listings. I think a lot of bets have just been won by those who called the box as one of Snake’s.

   Frankly, I think that delaying Super Smash Bros. Brawl was the right thing for Nintendo right now… it seems like the attention for Super Mario Galaxy just went right through the roof after that, and no doubt for good reason.

2. Speaking of which, Nintendo offers the following statement for the release of Super Mario Galaxy:

   REDMOND, Wash., Nov. 12, 2007 – The amazing new Super Mario Galaxy? game launches for Wii? in T-minus 3 ? 2 ? 1. The hottest game for the hottest system fills players and observers with an otherworldly sense of wonder, and demonstrates the skill and imagination of legendary Nintendo video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto.

   Video game icon Mario? launches into space and encounters a multitude of crazy creatures on unbelievable planets. Players master the changing gravities they encounter while exploring each planet and collecting Power Stars. For the first time, Super Mario Galaxy lets a second player lend a hand in “co-star” mode. Using the revolutionary motion-sensitive Wii Remote?, the co-star can point at the screen to collect starbits to shoot at enemies, deflect incoming attacks or stall enemies to help Mario. It’s a way for the newcomers that Nintendo has brought into the world of video games to play right alongside their more experienced peers.

   “Super Mario Galaxy is a game that everybody can play, whether you’ve been a Mario fan for 25 years or you just started playing Wii Sports,” says George Harrison, Nintendo of America’s senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. “It’s an easy favorite for game of the year and should stand as one of the best – and most beautiful – games of all time.”

   In the game, Bowser? crashes the star festival and carries Princess Peach’s castle into space. On a curious new planet, Mario learns a powerful spin move that players pull off by shaking the Wii Remote. Mario also has an arsenal of new transformations at his disposal, including the Boo Mario, which causes him to float and fly through walls, and Bee Mario, which turns him into a beyond-adorable flying bee.

   Super Mario Galaxy is Rated E for Everyone. Once you pick up a copy and you’re in the mood to throw a party to show it off to all your friends, you should check out the new Mario-themed Evite at Evite.com. It shows how Mario’s look has changed through the years, and it’s a great way to rally your friends for a Wii party.

   Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com.

   Plus the typical company info and such. As for me, I’m officially on blackout until I get my hands on a copy of the game, probably (hopefully) this week; I may report some stuff about it, but that doesn’t mean I’ll have seen/read/watched it.

3. Word is that we could possibly see a 3D remake of Zelda: A Link To The Past…

   Might be alright… I think I’d rather they just kept the gameplay the same, and updated the graphics, though. Maybe if it looked like TP from a top-down perspective, and panned around for cutscenes…?

4. Banjo for Xbox is still on track…
5. John Davison, formerly of Ziff-Davis, has formed a new site called What They Play, designed to help better educate parents about the games that are coming out.
6. Are you ready to Check Mii Out?
7. Holy interlocking bricks, Batman! It’s the new LEGO Batman trailer!

   Wow, Fall 2008 feels SO far away…

8. New on Virtual Console this week are Volleyball for the NES, Blue’s Journey for the NeoGeo, and Axelay for the Super NES.

   But are any of them worth getting? For THAT, we turn to the Retro Roundup…

9. Want to take on Mr. Kennedy in WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008?

   No, not just the character in the game, but the real deal playing the game? IGN tells you how.

10. Companion Cubes: Now available in plush.
11. Seems that Guitar Hero III for the Wii has a slight problem.
12. And for Canada, Rock Band has a problem of its own.

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

InFormers: Robots in the News

1. This ought to be good. TransFormers The Movie is poised to be MSTed… er, “Rifftraxed.”
2. That Michael Bay is more clever than he’s given credit for. From here on out, don’t believe anything about TransFormers 2.
3. Images galore for Jungle Bonecrusher, Allspark Power Stockade, and Deep Space Starscream.

Assorted Mushrooms

1. The Jones Soda Company is at it again, bringing you the most god-awful holiday flavored sodas with the profits going to charity. Just think, if you drink it, then it’s like you’re being punished for giving!

   Looks like they’re ditching the “Turkey & Gravy” flavor (I still have mine from last Christmas) in favor of “Christmas Ham” and “Latke.”

   Wow, a “Happy Chanukah Pack?” I know what I’m bringing to the in-laws’!

2. Sounds like Marvel Toys has a real monkey on its back as they’re forced to recall some Curious George toys.
3. IGN has an update on the Writer’s Strike, and it sounds like The Governator is getting involved.

Video Power

1. Think I forgot to mention this over here… the 360 has finally outsold the PS3 in Japan. It’s a small victory, but a victory nonetheless, despite the handhelds and Wii slaughtering both.

   The question now is, will they do anything to keep this small momentum?

2. Are you ready?

   THQ is almost ready to break it down in just a couple more days as D-Generation X struts their stuff in WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008.

   And if you’re not down with that, then they’ve got just two words for ya’…

3. Unfortunately, it seems that WWE on Wii is lacking in features.
4. Won’t be long now! GameTrailers features a Japanese montage of gameplay from Super Mario Galaxy.
5. Ok, so Nintendo isn’t upping Virtual Console output after all.
6. If you think you can hold out until Black Friday, then you can save $15 at Circuit City on Super Mario Galaxy.
7. If you’re in the UK and preorder/purchase Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games at Play, then you can get a cool Team Mario or Team Sonic t-shirt.

   Might have to hit up eBay for one or two of those…

8. …well, I liked Croc… the character, anyway.

   If Fox Interactive is getting back into games, I wonder if we’ll see more of the little guy.

9. Ok, so the Hitman movie will be rated R after all.

   Not that I especially care, but a little less stupid in the world is always nice.

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

InFormers: Robots in the News

1. New Fast Action Battlers from the Movie line are on the way.
2. Plus, more Animated prototypes can be seen on eBay.

Assorted Mushrooms

1. The 5th turtle has another sneak peek at the art designs for the 2K8 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles show, this time showing off April and Casey.
2. Build-a-Bear has added some new items for the holiday season.

Video Power

1. The final update of the week at Smash Bros. DOJO!! reveals a more in-depth look at a stage we got a peek at during E for All: Norfair.

   This one actually looks to have some hilarious possibilities.

2. Sounds like the UK might be in for a rough holiday season, as hardware shortages for all platforms are expected.
3. Oooh, goody. The Discovery Channel is going to air a documentary on the 21st titled Rise of the Videogame. Hope it’s good.
4. Those expecting/hoping for a Wii DVD player this year may have to wait a little longer.
5. Xbox LIVE: Now celebrating “5ive” years.
6. Gamecock defies South Carolina, encouraging Stephen Colbert to get back in the race, starting with Texas, going so far as to offer their own offices for a campaign HQ.
7. Just two more days until Check Mii Out debuts.
8. There have been rumors running lately that the 40GB PS3 has, ironically, a 40% failure rate. Now, Sony has stepped forward to deny it.
9. GameTrailers has a ton of different Wii Fit demonstrations. And you’re nuts if you think I’m linking to all of them.
10. The Mooninites hit up the green in Aqua Teen Hunger Force to bring about the sort of excitement and Boston-pants-crapping excitement that only they can.
11. Sony USA’s CEO has declared that the Blu-Ray vs. HD-DVD format war is at a stalemate.
12. Spike TV announces their Video Game Awards nominees.

    Am I the only one who thinks it seems a little… odd that Super Mario Galaxy isn’t on for a Game of the Year contender? Bear in mind that it IS on the ballot for “Best Action Game” and “Best Wii Game.”

13. Speaking of which, more screens, probably the last we’ll see before launch.
14. A scan wherein Future Shop and Best Buy are matching US prices.
15. More details on the Toys R Us Super Mario Galaxy deal, which we do not yet know if it’s valid in Canada or not. The guy on the phone I spoke to had never heard anything about it.
16. Computer and Video Games has a new preview available for Mario Kart Wii.
17. The Atari 2600 has finally been inducted into the Toy Hall of Fame.
18. With a new campaign for Super Mario Galaxy, Nintendo is “looking to return Mario to the masses.”

–LBD “Nytetrayn”

InFormers: Robots in the News

1. Want a TransFormers: Animated prototype? How about two? Then please, come right this way.

Assorted Mushrooms

1. So, yeah. Best be careful of Bindeez/Aqua Dots this Christmas…
2. No idea if the movie is ever going to happen, but in the meantime, a preview for FREDDY vs. JASON vs. ASH #1.
3. Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane talks to IGN about the strike in some down-to Earth, frank terms. Also, when to expect the last completed episodes of Family Guy and American Dad.
4. Box art and bonus feature information abound, as IGN tells us about Futurama: Bender’s Big Score.
5. It’s here, it’s here! It’s finally here! Get Smart on DVD– all of it!

   …and hella-expensive, to boot. $200? Yikes! So worth it… but so out of reach…

6. IGN reports that Dragon Ball Z will shoot in Mexico, rather than Montreal. This sort of disappointed me… until I remembered the description of the movie.

Video Power

1. If you’re in the San Francisco area, you might be interested in being part of a focus group that Capcom is putting together for a new game.
2. Smash Bros. DOJO!! updates with information on the Special Moves of Lucas, and a little grim foreboding of whether or not Ness may make the cut…
3. Further details have come down regarding the midnight launch at Nintendo World for Super Mario Galaxy. I really recommend going, if you’re out that way and looking to get the game. The Wii launch was a blast, and I’d love to make it to this one if it were possible.

   Oh, and speaking of which, if you just haven’t been able to find a Wii, you’re in luck: Nintendo World will have 250 for the launch.

4. More Aqua Teen Hunger Force Ninja Pro-Am footage.
5. Ubisoft is aiming high as they seek to have a “Nintendo-like quality.”

   Sounds like the right idea to me, instead of constant bitching about how Nintendo steals all the moneys and running off to hide under the skirt of a console with an arguably less-reputed first-party development setup.

6. The Virtual Console sits pretty at 166 possible downloadable titles, and Nintendo has revealed that they are aiming for 200 by year’s end.

   Game|Life has surmised the following: That means Nintendo will have to release an average of 4.25 games per week to hit their year-end target.

   Since the crack Virtual Console team is currently on a steady three-games-per-week schedule, that means one of two things is going on:

   1) They’re about to (semi)permanently ramp up the number of Virtual Console games
   2) They are a liar :_:

   I’m pulling for #1, personally, even though the rate at which I download VC games remains infrequent, because they still cost money. But the option is nice, especially when a game comes along that I can’t resist.

7. So details about the Onimusha movie have begun to surface.

   Now, I’ve never played any of the games except for Blade Warriors, which was ok and I was only interested in because it had Mega Man characters. So I know little about the plot, except that it’s something about Japan. Feudal, I believe.

   But judging from the comments, would it be safe if I threw a guess out there that this is not how the games were?

8. And, the new line of Nintendo clothing by Torrel is available now!

   …and expensive as Hell, yikes!

–LBD “Nytetrayn”